OKLAHOMA CITY — Palomar told News 9 on Wednesday that it has made significant progress on the new building, which is slated to open in May 2027.
According to organization staff, Oklahoma is one of the worst states for violence against women.
In 2019, voters decided to implement a temporary one-cent sales tax so that Palomar, in part, could expand.
“Walking around the building, I can imagine it finished already. That’s how we build it. We build it in our head first, then we make it a reality after that,” said Aedan Cottle, Superintendent overseeing the project.
Chief Visionary Officer Kim Garrett-Funk said the new space at Park and Hudson will serve thousands each year.
The 72,000 sq. ft. building, which is more than double the size of Palomar’s current space, will have private meeting rooms, space for medical care, a community training room, a kitchen providing free meals for clients, sensory rooms and comfortable waiting areas.
“It allows us to bring in more forensic space, more counseling; it has a beautiful two-story children’s playground, which is really special to me because it allows kids to be in a safe environment which can provide hope and healing,” Garrett-Funk shared.
With help from 45 partner agencies, including Oklahoma City Police Department, the District Attorney’s Office, advocacy organizations and the Humane Society, clients will have access to a wide breadth of support services.
“There’s a lot of gratitude that we have for the voters who have supported this project. It’s a huge testament that you matter– that you’re not alone,” Garrett-Funk insisted.
Cottle added that this project isn’t like most other jobs:
“It’s been a really special project. It means a lot, because it’s going to impact many, many people.”
In the last year, Palomar said it has served more than 6,000 unduplicated clients, although many receive support for periods of months to years.
Palomar’s operating hours will be extended when the new building opens, staff continued.
The new building will hopefully be open and operational by May 2027, Garrett-Funk added.
